T. J. Walker Middle School
Student Handbook
2015 - 2016
T. J. Walker Middle School
Setting the BAR High!
Be Respectful
Accountable
Responsible
This handbook is posted on the district website at www.sturbay.k12.wi.us
WELCOME
Welcome, parents and students, to Thomas J. Walker Middle School as we head into a new school year!
The purpose of the handbook is to inform you about expectations, requirements, and responsibilities of students and
parents in the middle school. Parents and students are encouraged to use this handbook as a reference guide and to
review its contents to become knowledgeable about school policies and procedures.
Each student will also be assigned an assignment notebook, which is designed to help your youngster stay organized
by keeping a written record of assignments, due dates, and calendars etc. It can also be used to facilitate
communication between home and school, so please page through it often with your youngster(s).
Success in school is directly related to your efforts. Students, take time to become involved in co-curricular
activities, communicate with your teachers, take pride in your work, and above all, make the most of the educational
opportunities we offer. They will benefit you now and throughout the future.
PHILOSOPHY
We, the students and staff of Thomas J. Walker Middle School, believe that school is a place to explore new and
exciting things. Here, students have the opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, intellectually, morally, and
socially under the guidance of their teachers and all other staff members. T. J. Walker Middle School is a place
where every individual is treated with respect, and people are rewarded for trying new experiences.
We want to encourage an atmosphere of a “learning community” in our school. This means that all of us must
exercise good judgment as we interact with each other. An important aspect of getting along with others is to have
the skills and willingness to hold ourselves accountable when disagreements or conflicts arise. We must be
responsible to acquire and internalize these skills if these are areas of lesser strengths. They are learned just like
other school subjects and lessons in life. We must practice good social skills until they become a natural part of us,
and as this happens, we can model and teach these to others. In this manner, a community of mutual respect and
tolerance becomes the standard for our day-to-day task of educating everyone in our school.
MISSION STATEMENT
The School District of Sturgeon Bay, in
partnership with the student, family, and
community, will provide diverse educational
opportunities for the development of
informed, knowledgeable citizens and
successful life-long learners.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Staff Directory ..................................................................................................... 5
Calendar ............................................................................................................... 6
Middle School Office ........................................................................................... 7
Phone System ....................................................................................................... 7
Parent Online Resources ...................................................................................... 7
Parent Newsletter ................................................................................................. 7
Hot Lunch ............................................................................................................ 7
Breakfast Program................................................................................................ 7
Daily Schedule ..................................................................................................... 7
Closed Campus .................................................................................................... 7
Delivery/Pick-Up Students................................................................................... 8
Emergency Closings ............................................................................................ 8
Lost and Found Property ...................................................................................... 8
Lockers – Locker Searches .................................................................................. 8
Bicycles ................................................................................................................ 8
Medications .......................................................................................................... 8
Inhalers ................................................................................................................. 8
School Visitors ..................................................................................................... 8
Emergencies/Injuries/Illness ................................................................................ 9
Insurance .............................................................................................................. 9
Academic Program............................................................................................... 9
Report Cards ........................................................................................................ 9
Honor Roll ........................................................................................................... 9
BUG Roll ............................................................................................................. 9
Physical Education ............................................................................................... 9
Special Services ................................................................................................. 10
Library ............................................................................................................... 10
Computer Access ............................................................................................... 10
Fire Drills/Disaster Alerts .................................................................................. 10
Evacuation Procedure ........................................................................................ 10
School Socials .................................................................................................... 10
Personal Celebrations ......................................................................................... 11
Directory Data Distribution................................................................................ 11
REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
Attendance Regulations ..................................................................................... 11
Absence Procedures ........................................................................................... 11
Planned Absences .............................................................................................. 11
Medical Appointments ....................................................................................... 12
Excessive Absenteeism ...................................................................................... 12
Tardiness ............................................................................................................ 12
Dress and Grooming .......................................................................................... 12
Public Displays of Affection .............................................................................. 12
Promotion & Retention of Students ................................................................... 12
Homework.......................................................................................................... 13
Study Table ........................................................................................................ 13
Pass To Play ....................................................................................................... 13
Articles Prohibited In School ............................................................................. 13
Cell Phones, Ipods, & Small Handheld Devices ............................................... 13
Tobacco-Free Environment ................................................................................ 13
Racial and Sexual Harassment ........................................................................... 13
Field Trips/Group Activities .............................................................................. 14
School Property .................................................................................................. 14
End of Year Checkout ....................................................................................... 14
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.)
Bus Transportation ............................................................................................ 14
Bullying ............................................................................................................. 14
Discipline ........................................................................................................... 15
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Co-Curricular Activities Available .................................................................... 15
Co-Curricular Code ............................................................................................ 16
Academic Eligibility .......................................................................................... 16
User Fees ............................................................................................................ 16
Sportsmanship .................................................................................................... 16
Athletic Insurance .............................................................................................. 16
Physical Examinations ....................................................................................... 16
Transportation To/From Events ......................................................................... 16
Cooperation With Churches ............................................................................... 16
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
It is the policy of the School District of Sturgeon Bay, pursuant to Wis. Stats. 118.13, and PI 9, that no person, on
the basis of age, sex, race, national origin, ancestry, creed, religion pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual
orientation or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability or handicap, may be denied admission to any school
in this district or be denied participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be discriminated against in any curricular,
extracurricular, pupil services, recreational, or other programs.
All vocational education programs follow the district’s policies of non-discrimination on the basis of the abovementioned reasons. In addition, arrangements can be made to ensure that the lack of English language skills is not a
barrier to admission or participation.
For a copy of the complaint procedure or any question or complaints concerning Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of the above mentioned reasons, contact:
Mr. Dan Tjernagel, Superintendent, School District of Sturgeon, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, phone 920-746-2801.
Inquiries related to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1972, which prohibits
discrimination on the basis of handicap, should be directed to: Sharon Sanderson, School
District of Sturgeon Bay, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, phone 920-746-2804
NOTICE TO PARENTS
As a parent of a student in the Sturgeon Bay School District you have the right to know the professional
qualifications of the classroom teachers that instruct your child. Federal law allows you to ask for specific
information about your child’s classroom teachers and requires that we respond in a timely manner when we are
asked for such information. Please check our website for the qualifications of our teaching staff. You have the right
to ask the building principal for the following information in regard to your child’s teachers:

Whether the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has licensed or qualified
the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teaches.

Whether the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has decided that the teacher can teach in a
classroom without being licensed or qualified under state regulations because of special circumstances.

The teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has advanced degrees and the subject of the degrees.

Whether any teachers’ assistants or similar paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do,
their qualifications.
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Sturgeon Bay Public Schools Board of Education
Jacob Schultz
Keith Miller
Amy Stephens
Tina Jennerjohn
John Hauser
Roger Wood
Chad Hougaard
Pam Seiler
Teri Hooker
Sturgeon Bay Public Schools Administrators
Dan Tjernagel (746-2801) .................................................. District Administrator
Ann Smejkal (746-2818)....................................................... Elementary Principal
Randy Watermolen (746-2803) ....................................... Middle School Principal
Robert Nickel (746-2802)....................................................High School Principal
Sharon Sanderson (746-2804) ...................................... Director of Pupil Services
Tom Olsen (746-2805) .............................................................. Business Manager
John Sullivan (746-5814) .......................................................Building & Grounds
Sandy Andre (746-3877) .....................................................Food Service Director
John Quaderer (818-0785) ............................................ Kobussen Bus Supervisor
T. J. Walker Middle School Staff
Heidi Bader (746-3875) ......................................................................... Counselor
Dena Barganz ................................................................... Special Education Aide
Amanda Bennett (746-5735) .................................... Family/Consumer Education
Patrick Blizel (746-3868) ............................................................Social Studies - 6
Char Brauer (746-2806) ......................................................................... Secretary
Amelia Canilho (746-5745).......................................................... Spanish Teacher
Sally Guger (746-5738) .................................................................................... Art
Nora Hanks ............................................................................................. ELL Aide
Melissa Haack (746-5739) ........................................... English Language Arts – 8
Jennifer Hanson (746-5728) ............................................. Computer Applications
Joanne Hathaway.............................................................. Special Education Aide
Leslie Hill (746-5742) .......................................................... Vocal/General Music
Ashley Hill (746-5814) .............................................................. Special Education
Kasee Jandrin (746-5769) ........................................... English Language Arts – 6
Debra Jeanquart (746-5744) ....................................................... Mathematics – 6
Reid Jordan (746-3897) ............................................................... Mathematics - 7
Stacy Judas (746-5807).............................................................. Social Studies – 8
Jennifer Lasee (746-5773) ............................................................ Science – 6 & 7
Lori Mellen (746-3862)...................................................................... Library Aide
Linda Mirkes (746-5816) ....................................................... Speech & Language
Robert Myers (746-5811) ....................................................... School Psychologist
Sharon Nelson (746-5755) ........................................................... Mathematics – 8
Brynn Orthober ................................................................. Special Education Aide
Sue Piper (746-5819) ................................................................ Special Education
Matt Propsom (746-5725) ............................................................. Science – 6 & 8
Ann Quale (746-5761) ................................................................Social Studies - 7
John Rosenthal (746-5765) ................................................. Industrial Technology
Lauri Rosenthal (746-5766) .................................................... Instrumental Music
Jeanne Schopf (746-5924)............................................ English Language Arts – 7
Holly Selle (746-3882) ....................................................Library Media Specialist
Scott Steebs (746-2809) ............................................................ Special Education
Terri Stoneman.................................................................. Special Education Aide
Randy Watermolen (746-2803) ....................................... Middle School Principal
Shannon Wautier (746-3881) .................................................... Special Education
Jody Wheat (746-3869) ............................................... Health/Physical Education
Middle School Office: 746-2810
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T. J. Walker Middle School
School Calendar 2015-16
This calendar is not updated during the school year. Please visit our Online Calendar for the most current information.
Aug. 24 ........................................................................ 6th Grade Orientation 6:30 PM
Aug. 25 ........................................................................... Choir Picnic 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Sept. 1 ......................................................................................... First Day of School
Sept. 8 ............................................................... Allied Arts Parent Meeting 6:00 PM
Sept. 8 .............................................. 8th Grade Parent/Student DC Meeting 6:30 PM
Sept. 8 .............................................................................. Open House 7:00-8:00 PM
Sept. 9 ................................................................................................ School Pictures
Sept. 18 ................................................................................. MS Dance 7:00-9:00 PM
Oct. 8 .............................................................................. LA/Art Day @ Crossroads
Oct. 9 ....................................................................... Teacher In-Service/No Classes
Oct. 20 ............................................................................. Fall Band Concert 7:00 PM
Oct. 27 ............................................................................ Fall Choir Concert 7:00 PM
Oct. 30 ................................................................................. MS Dance 7:00-9:00 PM
Nov. 4 .......................................... ½ Day Teacher In-Service PM/End of 1st Quarter
Nov. 18 & 19 .......................................... Parent Teacher Conferences (1:30 Release)
Nov. 20 .................................................................................. Fall Break – No Classes
Nov. 26 & 27 .......................................................... Thanksgiving Break – No Classes
Dec. 5 ............................................................................. Allied Arts Dress Rehearsal
Dec. 8 ................... Senior Citizen Allied Arts Performance & Luncheon 10:30 AM
Dec. 11 ........................................................ Public Allied Arts Performance 7:00 PM
Dec. 17 ......................................................................... Winter Band Concert 7:00 PM
Dec. 23 ....................................................... Last Day School Before Winter Vacation
Jan. 4 ................................................................................................ Classes Resume
Jan. 15 ................................................................................. MS Dance 7:00-9:00 PM
Jan. 20 ...........................................½ Day Teacher In-Service PM/End of 2nd Quarter
Feb. 6 ................................................................................................... Ski Brule Trip
Feb. 10 – 12 ....................................................6th Grade Science Field Trip to CWES
Feb. 13 .................................................................................... POPS Concert 4:00 PM
Feb. 18 ....................................................................... Winter Choir Concert 7:00 PM
Feb. 26 ........................................................................ Teacher In-Service/No Classes
Mar. 5..........................................Destination Imagination Regional @ Sturgeon Bay
Mar. 7 - 11 .................................................................................... Spring Fever Week
Mar. 8................................................................. Door Co. Middle School Math Meet
Mar. 19 ............... 7th & 8th Grade Band & Choir Solo/Ensemble Festival @ So. Door
Mar. 24 .......................................... ½ Day Teacher In-Service PM/End of 3rd Quarter
Mar. 25 – Apr. 1 ................................................................. Spring Break – No Classes
Mar. 26.................................................................................... DC Trip Rummage Sale
April 21 ................................. 6th Gr. Band & Choir Solo/Ensemble Festival 3:15 PM
May 6 ........................................................................ Teacher In-Service/No Classes
May 9 - 12 ............................................................................ 5th Grade Shadow Days
May 10 .......................................................................... Spring Choir Concert 7:00 PM
May 13 ..................................................................... MS Dance (Grades 5-7) 7:00 PM
May 15 - 20................................................................. 8th Grade Washington DC Trip
May 26 .............................................. 8th Grade Field Trip to Point Beach Power Plant
May 26 .......................................................................... Spring Band Concert 7:00 PM
May 27 .....................................................................All School Track Meet and Picnic
May 30 .............................................................................. Memorial Day – No Classes
June 3 ............................................................. 8th Grade Band Trip – Wisconsin Dells
June 6 ............................................. 8th Grade Awards Ceremony & Picnic 10:30 AM
June 7 .................................................... ½ Day (11:55 release) (Last Day of School)
Revised 6/18/2015
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Middle School Office
Hot Lunch
Daily Schedule
Office hours are between 7:30
a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Parents may
call the middle school office at
746-2810 before and after our
office hours to leave a voice
mail message.
Hot lunch is served at designated times between 12:34 p.m.
and 1:07 p.m. in the commons.
Sack lunches will also be eaten
in the commons at that time.
Hot Lunch Prices
Food Bar
$2.75
Regular Lunch $2.75
Clipper Lunch $2.75
$1.60
2nd Entrée
Extra Milk
$.35
Beverages and hot lunch can be
purchased with the use of a
computer lunch account. Cash
will not be accepted. Deposits
to this account may be done
through the middle school
office. Please refer to the lunch
program letter issued at time of
registration for more details
regarding our school lunch and
breakfast programs. Free and
reduced applications must be
filed at the beginning of each
school year. We encourage all
families who qualify for free and
reduced lunch to apply because
a number of our grants are based
on the number of students on
free or reduced lunch. Students
on free or reduced lunch also
receive free breakfast.
Students should plan to arrive at
school no earlier than 7:30 a.m.
Our school hallways will not be
open to students prior to
7:50 a.m. unless arrangements
have been made with a staff
member; however the gym will
be open from 7:30 – 7:50 a.m.
School is not responsible for the
supervision of your child prior
to that time. Below is the daily
bell schedule of classes. Our
day is divided into three main
academic blocks (1,2,3) which
in turn are broken into (A, B, C)
Phone System
Your phone calls are extremely
important to us. Due to the
limitations of having only one
secretary in the middle school
office you may want to avoid
delays by dialing the staff
member’s room/office directly.
All classrooms may be dialed
directly. Please see the staff
directory on page 5 for a list of
extension numbers.
Parent Online Resources
Parents have electronic access to
their child’s grades and
homework assignments by
visiting our school’s homepage
on the district’s website at
www.sturbay.k12.wi.us By
visiting your child’s Haiku
account you will have access to
homework assignments for all
his/her classes. The Power
School Access link will give you
the ability to check your child’s
grades. In addition, online
textbooks and other resources
are available to use. Please make
a point to utilize these webbased resources to keep abreast
of your child’s academic
performance.
Students cannot individually, or
as a student group, order carryin food from restaurants unless
this activity is sponsored and
supervised by a staff member or
parent and with prior approval
of the principal. Soda and candy
will not be sold during the
school day and students should
not bring these items in their
sack lunch.
Breakfast Program
Parent Newsletter
Generally, about once per month
our parent newsletter, The Link,
will be published and mailed to
parents. This newsletter has
important information about our
school. Please watch for, and
review it.
Students have the opportunity to
eat breakfast from 7:50 –
8:02a.m. They may use their
food service account to purchase
a complete breakfast for $1.75
or individual ala carte items if
authorized by their parents.
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Daily Bell Schedule
Breakfast
7:50 – 8:02
Homeroom
8:05 – 8:13
Period 1A
8:15 – 8:56
Period 1B
8:58 – 9:39
Period 1C
9:41 – 10:22
Period 2A
10:27 – 11:08
Period 2B
11:10 – 11:51
Period 2C
11:53 – 12:34
Lunch
12:34 – 1:07
Period 3A
1:10 – 1:52
Period 3B
1:54 – 2:36
Period 3C
2:38 – 3:20
Students may not loiter in and
around the building after school
is dismissed unless students are
under the direct supervision of a
staff member.
Closed Campus
We have a closed campus at the
middle school. Students must
remain at school during lunch
unless their parent or guardian
has submitted a written request
to the principal for the student to
go home only for lunch. Under
no circumstances may students
go to one another’s homes or
elsewhere during the lunch
period. Permission may be
revoked if tardiness or other
school related problems occur.
Delivery/Picking-up Students
Locker – Locker Searches
Inhalers
Bus loading and unloading of
students (both before and after
school) is done in front of the
high school. This driveway off
of Michigan St. is off limits to
cars during bus loading and
unloading times.
Each student will be assigned a
corridor locker for school use. It
is each student’s responsibility
to close and lock his/her locker
and to keep it neat and clean.
Locker combinations should
never be shared with other
students. The school will accept
no responsibility for lost articles.
Trading lockers is not permitted.
Proper care of school lockers is
expected. No stickers, taping, or
writing on lockers is permitted.
Kicking or hitting lockers will
not be tolerated. Coats and
backpacks must be stored in
your locker. The school
reserves the right to inspect
student lockers, which includes
canine searches for drugs or
other prohibited items, at any
time as per Board Policy.
Under State Statute, asthmatic
pupils may possess and use
inhalers providing the following
conditions are in place:
(1) While in school, at a schoolsponsored activity or under the
supervision of a school
authority, an asthmatic pupil
may possess and use a metered
dose inhaler or dry powder
inhaler if all of the following are
true:
(a) The pupil uses the inhaler
before exercise to prevent the
onset of asthmatic symptoms or
uses the inhaler to alleviate
asthmatic symptoms.
(b) The pupil has the written
approval of his/her physician
and, if the pupil is a minor, the
written approval of his/her
parent or guardian.
(c) The pupil has provided
the school principal with a copy
of the approval or approvals
under par. (b).
(2) No school district, school
board or school district
employee is civilly liable for
damage to a pupil caused by a
school district employee who
prohibits a pupil from using an
inhaler because of the
employee’s good faith belief
that the requirements of sub.(1)
had not been satisfied or who
allows a pupil to use an inhaler
because of the employee’s good
faith belief that the requirements
of sub.(1) had been satisfied.
Parents bringing students to
school or picking them up at the
end of the day may use the
middle school driveway on 14th
Avenue or the service road
behind our high/middle school
building. The service road
allows traffic only one way so
you must enter from 12th
Avenue and exit on 14th
Avenue. On dates when the
busses need to pick up students
for activities after school (i.e.
sports events) parents are asked
to pull out of the driveway to
allow the busses access to the
space in front of school.
Emergency Closings
If it becomes necessary to close
school due to inclement weather
or other hazardous conditions,
notification will be given over
the local TV and radio stations
as soon as possible.
Bicycles
Bicycles may be brought to
school. Upon arrival at school,
bicycles must be parked in the
racks and must not be ridden on
school grounds. Bicycles are
private property. Vandalism,
unauthorized use, and theft will
be referred to law enforcement.
The school is not responsible for
bicycles brought to school.
Lost and Found Property
Medications
Students who find items that
don’t belong to them should
bring the item(s) to the office
immediately.
Students who have lost an item
should check with the school
office. Students are urged to not
bring valuables and large sums
of money to school. If for some
reason it is necessary for you to
do so, the office will keep
valuables for you and return
them upon request.
The office must dispense all
medicines, including over-thecounter medication, when
specific instructions and written
permission have been received
from parents and doctor. A
medication authorization form
must be on file in the office.
Prescription drugs must be
delivered to school by the parent
in the most current original
container. Tylenol will be
dispensed if written parental
permission is on file.
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School Visitors
All visitors, including parents
and volunteers who visit the
middle school must first stop in
the office to register and be
issued a visitor pass. All visitors
must also sign out of the office
and return their pass prior to
leaving the school. We look
forward to your visits.
Emergencies/Injuries/Illness
A limited supply of first aid
equipment is available in the
office for minor cuts, slivers, etc
All injuries should be reported
to the middle school office as
soon after an accident as
possible so first aid and/or
corrective action can be taken.
Any student who becomes ill
during school hours should
report to the office. Permission
to leave school will be granted
after parents or guardians have
been alerted and a means of
getting home has been arranged.
In the event of any emergency,
we will make a reasonable
attempt to contact the parent or
guardian. School personnel will
assist the parent in making
necessary arrangements. If a
parent cannot be notified and the
situation demands immediate
action, the principal or other
designated personnel will take
the most appropriate means for
handling the situation. This may
include the use of an ambulance
and the hospital emergency
room.
Parents are reminded to notify
the middle school office if
changes to the emergency
contact information, given at
registration in August, changes
during the school year.
If for some reason a student is to
be treated differently than
discussed above, (i.e. unusual
physical problems, religious
beliefs, etc.) the office must be
notified in writing.
Insurance
No general accident insurance is
carried for students by the
school district. Routine
accidents, wherein there is no
liability on the part of the
school, are the responsibility of
the parents. A low-cost
insurance policy (on an
individual basis) is available for
any student to purchase at any
time during the school year.
Participation is optional, but
should be considered by all
families who do not have
insurance coverage. This
insurance covers accidents in
school as well as in sports
(except football).
Academic Program
Each student’s academic
program is made up of both
required and elective courses.
These classes are chosen by the
student with parent approval.
We attempt to schedule students
into electives they have chosen;
however, we reserve the right to
assign students into classes as
determined by enrollment needs
and course availability.
Report Cards
The school year is divided into
four grading periods. Two nineweek periods constitute a
semester. Grades are assigned
and report cards issued at the
end of each nine weeks. The
semester grade becomes part of
your permanent academic
record. Approximately one
week after the end of each
grading period, report cards will
be mailed home.
Honor Roll
The school maintains “A” (3.5
GPA) and “B” (3.0 GPA) honor
rolls each semester as a means
of encouraging and recognizing
high scholastic achievement in
all grades. To be eligible for
honor roll status, students must
not have any grades of “D” or
“F” during the grading period.
9
BUG Roll
Bringing Up Grades (BUG) Roll
is sponsored by the Kiwanis
Club in cooperation with
McDonalds. Students are placed
on the BUG Roll if they
1. raise two grades at least one
grade level
2. have no failing grade
3. have no grades drop from
previous quarter.
Once a student is on the BUG
Roll s/he remains on the roll by
raising one grade the next
quarter and meet #2 & #3.
Physical Education
Physical Education is required
for all students by Wisconsin
Law and Sturgeon Bay School
Board Policy. A current
medical excuse from a physical
must be on file in the office
before any student will be
released from the physical
education requirement. Single
day excuses for not participating
in physical education due to a
temporary situation may be
granted by the principal if the
student has a written request
from the parent or guardian.
The excuse granted means that
the student need not participate
in activities for that day;
however, he or she must attend
the class. Participation in class
activities is reflected in the
student’s grade.
Sturgeon Bay physical education
uniforms will be required of all
students. They may be
purchased for a nominal fee in
the school office. In addition,
gym shoes (tennis, jogging,
etc.), hair ties (girls), and towels
will need to be provided.
Students must have sweat tops
and/or bottoms when the
weather is colder. Names
should be written on personal
property to help prevent loss of
items. Students may be required
to shower after participation.
Special Services
Guidance and counseling
services are available to assist
students, parents, and teachers
with problems or concerns,
interpret test, and assist with
scheduling. Any parent or
student should feel free to
discuss problems and seek
advice from the guidance staff.
The Sturgeon Bay Schools will
provide a free and appropriate
education for all students
evidencing special educational
needs according to Wisconsin
State Statutes and Federal Laws.
Children with (special
educational needs) will be
educated to the maximum extent
possible with regular education
students in the least restrictive
environment. Inquiries
regarding these services should
be to the Director of Pupil
Services at 746-2804 or the
guidance counselor.
Additional specialists who are
available to assist parents,
students, and teachers are: a
school psychologist, a speechlanguage therapist, a school
social worker, a reading
specialist and a gifted/talented
resource teacher.
Library
The Library is designed for
study, research, exploring new
materials, and for recreational
reading. In this area you will
find a variety of materials
including newspapers,
magazines, fiction and
nonfiction books, reference
books, online databases, and
literally hundreds of materials
which can be viewed or listened
to for a classroom assignment or
for your own personal interest.
Individuals or small groups may
quietly work on projects or view
materials with permission from
the staff. No computer games or
MP3 players are allowed in the
library unless they are part of an
assigned class project.
Students may check out up to
five items at one time and use
the materials for three weeks.
Overdue books and fines must
be cleared for a student to retain
the privilege of using our
library.
Computer Access
Middle school students can now
use computers for accessing and
exploring information on the
Internet. In the interest of
maintaining computer ethics, all
students using the Internet for
any purpose while at school
must have a signed copy of the
internet user policy on file. No
personal email accounts may be
accessed by students on school
equipment. Computer games
may only be played with teacher
permission. Intentional misuse
of computers or technology will
jeopardize student access to
such equipment and may be
cause for disciplinary action.
Fire Drills/Disaster Alerts
Wisconsin Law requires that all
schools hold periodic drills to
prepare for fire or disaster.
Instructions for procedures will
be provided by all classroom
teachers and be posted in each
room. Students should be aware
that in the event of an actual fire
or disaster, prescribed
procedures might have to be
altered. It is the joint
responsibility of administration,
staff, and students to be aware of
emergency procedures in each
classroom in the building. The
best rule to use is common
sense. Treat every drill as
reality and move quickly and
quietly to vacate the building by
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the most expedient route, or go
to the designated area in the
event of a disaster alert. Each
school in our district also has a
security plan for responding to
high-risk/dangerous situations
should one occur.
Evacuation Procedure
Each school in our district has a
plan in place to evacuate to
another building if need be. In
these incidences, initial
notification to parents will be
made over the radio if there is
no plan to return to the school.
Students will only be released to
individuals listed on their
emergency cards and they must
have proof of identification.
School Socials
The middle school schedules a
number of social activities each
year. These socials may include
dances, class competitions,
parties or club activities.
- Good behavior is expected.
- Activities generally end no
later than 9:00 p.m.
- Once arriving at a dance,
students must remain unless
approval is given from
parent/guardian.
- Transportation home from
dances and other events should
be prearranged and done in a
timely manner.
- School dress code applies
with the exception of allowing
hats, skirts that are at least midthigh length, and yoga pants.
- Chaperones and staff are
always assigned to each activity.
Parents/guardians are invited to
visit or chaperone.
- Information on activities
will be included in the parent
newsletter when possible.
- Students who bring guests
from another school must
complete a guest form found in
School Socials (cont.)
the office and will assume
responsibility for their guest.
- Students who are in
frequent violation of middle
school policies and conduct
expectations may also be
withheld from such privileges
as deemed necessary by the
principal.
Personal Celebrations
Personal celebrations of any
kind (i.e. birthdays, holidays,
etc.) at school are disallowed by
school district policy. This
means that parents should not
deliver, or have delivered,
flowers, candy, balloons, or
anything else to students at
school. Please confine your
recognition of student birthdays
and holidays to non-school
times and places.
Directory Data Distribution
The laws of Wisconsin have
changed to now allow school
districts to release “Directory
Data” of pupils. “Directory
Data” means those pupil records
which include the pupil’s name,
address, telephone listing, date
and place of birth, participation
in officially recognized activities
and sports, dates of attendance,
photographs, awards received,
and the name of the school most
recently previously attended by
the pupil.
The local Board of Education
has a policy which does not
allow this information to be
given to commercial vendors
and this policy will not change
at this time. The new law does
provide that any parent, legal
guardian or guardian ad liter of
any pupil may request that all or
part of the directory data not be
released without prior consent.
It is the parent or guardian’s
responsibility to inform the
school immediately if they do
not want the directory data
released for any reason. Contact
the school principal if you have
any questions
REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
Attendance Regulations
The laws of Sturgeon Bay, Door
County, and Wisconsin require
that all students must be in
attendance during the days and
hours that school is in session.
Students are expected to attend
every class and study period in
which they are enrolled unless
they have an acceptable excuse.
Presently, the only acceptable
excuses for absences are:
a. Illness or medical.
b. Medical appointments.
c. Death or illness in family.
d. School field trips.
e. Vacations or family
functions.
f. Emergencies.
All other absences are
unexcused or subject to
administrative discretion. State
law allows parents to excuse
their child for ten days for the
above reasons (a-f) without
having medical verification.
Parents of students exceeding
the ten excused absences
without medical excuse will be
required to obtain a medical
excuse for future absences or the
absences will be considered
unexcused. Parents are
encouraged to turn in all medical
excuses to our office when their
child visits the doctor because
excused medical absences do
not count toward the allowed ten
days.
school activities that day, except
in cases of family emergencies,
excused preplanned absences, or
a written medical release.
Extended absences of more than
three days due to illness will
require a doctor’s excuse.
** Students must report to the
office when arriving or leaving
school during the school day **
Absence Procedures
Planned Absences
When a student is absent from
school for any reason, it is
necessary for the parent to
telephone the school’s
attendance line by 9:00 a.m. on
that day. This attendance line
can be used 24 hours a day.
Written notes from home are not
acceptable. When the school is
not notified of an absence, we
consider it unexcused. The
parent will then be notified
regarding the absence.
A student must be in school by
the beginning of 5th period
(11:32 a.m.) if they want to
attend or participate in after
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Planned absences due to family
travel or other circumstances
must be approved in advance if
the absence is for more than one
school day. Parents can initiate
the approval process by calling
the office at least two days prior
to the absence. A planned
absence form must be picked up
in the middle school office by
the student. This form is to be
signed by the student’s parent or
guardian, and each of the
student’s teachers and returned
to the office for administrative
approval.
Medical Appointments
Tardiness
Pupils who must leave school
for medical or dental
appointments must bring a
statement from home or an
appointment slip from the doctor
or dentist before they will be
released from school. Dentist
and doctor appointments should
be scheduled after school or
during study periods whenever
possible. Students must bring
back a slip from the doctor or
dentist to verify they attended
the appointment to receive a
medical excuse. No student
may leave school without parent
consent and securing permission
from the principal or school
secretary (blue permit form
signed by an authorized person).
Students must show the blue slip
to their teacher in order to be
released. Students must always
sign out in the office before
leaving school and sign in upon
returning.
Students are expected to be on
time for all classes. Teachers
will mark students tardy. All
tardiness will be treated as
unexcused unless the reason is
accepted by the principal.
Students who are tardy to class
because of being detained by a
faculty member are to get a pass
from that faculty member to go
to their next class. If excessive
tardiness occurs, the student will
be assigned lunch detentions.
Excessive Absenteeism
There is a direct relationship
between a student’s attendance
rate and his/her academic
success. Under ordinary
circumstances, students should
not be excused from school
unless it is absolutely necessary.
We realize that illnesses and
family concerns will arise
occasionally, and we are always
willing to discuss these if they
become an attendance concern.
The primary responsibility for
control of school attendance
rests with the parent/guardian.
If a student’s rate of absenteeism
becomes excessive, a parent
conference will be arranged to
discuss possible interventions.
Ultimately, a student may be
referred to juvenile authorities
for truancy and/or a parent
issued a citation for contributing
to his/her truancy.
Dress and Grooming
Sturgeon Bay students are
expected to come to school
looking clean, neat, and dressed
in a manner, which is accepted
as being in good taste. The
Sturgeon Bay Board of
Education has adopted a dress
code, which is designed to
recognize modern trends in
teenage dress. It is also
designed to exercise control
over outlandish dress and
grooming which may be
distracting. Pupils who are in
violation of this dress code will
be asked to change into
appropriate clothing. Additional
consequences will be considered
for repeat offenders.
No clothing worn to school,
including oversized trousers
(“baggies”) should present a
safety hazard or be worn in such
a manner that undergarments are
visible. All trousers must be
worn at waist level, regardless
of the length of any shirt worn to
cover the waist. All shirts or
blouses must cover the midriff,
have sleeves, and expose no
cleavage. Pajamas are not
considered appropriate for
school.
Shorts or skirts may be worn to
school. They must be of
appropriate style and length
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shorts - mid thigh (extend past
fingers when arms at one’s side)
and skirts – just above the knee.
Skorts will be considered a skirt.
Leggings that are visible may be
worn under shorts, skirts if they
do not meet the length allowed.
Students who wear shorts or
skirts will not be excused from
going outside for class activities
or recess on colder days.
Apparel that depicts or
advertises alcohol, tobacco or
drugs, and/or has slogans with
vulgar, violent or sexually
suggestive themes, or may
signify gang affiliation is not
acceptable in our school. Caps,
hats of any kind, or bandannas
are not to be worn in school.
Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection,
such as excessive hugging,
kissing, and touching
inappropriate places on the
body, is not allowed in our
school environment. Students
failing to comply will be subject
to disciplinary action.
Promotion and Retention of
Students
Teachers will not fail students if
they are applying themselves to
achieve their best. In general
terms, this means completing
assignments to the best of their
ability, submitting all work on a
timely basis, and demonstrating
a reasonable degree of learning
on exams and tests.
A parent/student conference will
be arranged with the grade level
teacher team for any student
endanger of being retained.
During the conference our
retention policy will be
reviewed and intervention plans
developed. Summer school and
after school study sessions may
be required as a result of this
conference.
Homework
One of the major factors
accounting for academic failures
at any level is not doing
assignments. In addition to not
getting credit for homework,
poor test scores usually
accompany the problem,
contributing to failing grades.
Homework Policies will be
communicated in writing by
each teacher/teacher team. The
policies will address what is
considered late work and
deductions for late work.
In Case of Absence:
Assignments due on the day of a
single absence are due upon
return. Teachers may require
long-term assignments (assigned
for a week or more) be due on a
specified date regardless of
attendance. In such cases,
students will need to have
someone bring in the assignment
for them if they are absent. The
teacher will communicate this
expectation in writing when the
project is assigned. Assignments
given on the day of a single
absence will be due on the
second day of return. Individual
teachers may grant extensions at
their discretion. Students who
are absent for consecutive days
are responsible for meeting with
each teacher on the day of their
return to determine due dates for
assignments missed.
Assignments not meeting these
expectations are considered late
and are subject to that teacher’s
late policy.
Study Table
Students in 6th & 7th grade may
be required to attend a grade
level study table after school if
they have a missing assignment
in any required academic class
that day. Students will only be
required to stay as long as it
takes to complete their late
assignment(s). Students are also
responsible for contacting their
parents if they need to attend
study table. Repeated failure to
attend study table may result in
a Saturday detention or an In
School Suspension. Parents are
responsible for making
transportation arrangements and
calling to excuse their child
from study table. 7th grade
students will transition from this
study table requirement
sometime during the school year
in preparation for the 8th grade.
Pass To Play
T. J. Walker Students must be
passing all their classes in order
to participate in or observe any
extra-curricular activities taking
place at school (i.e. dances,
athletic events, intramurals,
class trips, and in-school
recreational
activities/assemblies). Utilizing
our electronic grading system,
weekly lists will be generated of
students who are ineligible for
these activities due to failing
grades. Once a student regains
his/her passing status, s/he will
be allowed to participate.
locker rooms. Prohibited items
such as these listed above will
be confiscated.
Cell Phones, Ipods, & Small
Handheld Devices.
Due to the increased distraction
and theft of these electronic
devices; cell phones, ipods, and
other handheld devices/games
must be shut off prior to
homeroom and stored in one’s
locker. Cell Phones and other
devices that are seen out of the
locker during the school day or
at lunch will be confiscated and
given to the principal for pickup after school.
1st Offense – Warning issued.
2nd Offense–Parent pick up.
3+ Offenses- Pay $5 fine or
serve an after school detention
to get the item back.
*Failure to turn over the device
may lead to a Saturday
detention.
Devices that meet future BYOD
(bring your own device)
standards may only be utilized
for educational purposes (ie.
Kindles). Exceptions may be
made for specific class projects
with teacher permission.
Items Prohibited In School
Roller blades, wheelies, lighters,
aerosol cans, laser pointers,
fireworks, handheld
games/videos, and other items
considered a distraction to the
learning environment are not
allowed at school. Skateboards
may be ridden to school but not
on school grounds and must be
kept in the office. Drugs,
alcohol, weapons, and drug
paraphernalia, (including all
articles resembling such items,
etc.), are cause for suspension
and/or referral to police. State
law prohibits digital cameras in
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Tobacco-Free Environment
State law declares the premises
of all public schools be tobaccofree. Literally, that means no
possession, smoking or chewing
of any tobacco product on the
school grounds, in school
buildings, or at any school
activities by anyone of any age.
This includes the use of electric
cigarettes.
Racial and Sexual Harassment
Our school has a policy of zero
tolerance in regards to any
actions which disrupt the
learning environment or
threatens others. This includes,
but is not limited to, racial or
sexual harassment in any form.
Racial slurs or implications,
sexually suggestive comments,
actions, or gestures toward
others are in violation of school
policy and the law.
Consequently, behavior of this
type will not be tolerated and
complaints will be vigorously
investigated. Please exercise
good judgment and decisionmaking in this area.
Field Trip/Group Activities
Periodically throughout the year
various classes and/or grade
levels will take field trips away
from the school grounds. For
those activities, parental
permission slips must be signed
and on file in the office prior to
the student being released from
school. In order for students to
be eligible for any of these field
trips or special activities,
students must be in acceptable
academic and conduct status.
Students are reminded that
during field trips that they are
participating in a school activity
and all school rules apply.
Students are expected to be on
their best behavior on trips since
they are representing our school.
End of Year Checkout
Students who do not return all
school property (library books,
athletic equipment, padlocks,
textbooks, etc.) will be notified
and it is their responsibility to
inform their parents or
guardians. Students who return
materials that show excessive
wear or abuse beyond reason
may also be assessed the
prorated or full cost of the
item(s).
School Property
You, as a student, share the
responsibility for our school
remaining a clean, pleasant
place to work. Materials and
equipment are available for your
careful and reasonable use. All
textbooks should be covered
with a suitable covering. Please
take pride in your school!
Bus Transportation
All students can behave
appropriately and safely while
riding on a school bus. Any
student behavior, which impairs
a driver’s ability to do his/her
job or prevents other students
from having safe transportation,
will not be tolerated. General
school behavioral expectations
apply on the bus and at the bus
stop. Additional expectations
include:
1. Follow directives given
by the driver.
2. Sit facing forward.
3. Stand to exit only after
the bus stops.
4. Speak in a normal voice
& use appropriate words.
5. No eating or drinking.
6. Do not throw objects
within or out of the bus.
Consequences for not meeting
these expectations will be
determined by Kobussen Bus
based on the frequency, severity,
and age of the student. Standard
school consequences may apply
including suspension from
riding the bus and/or police or
community agency referral.
Students have parent permission
and a signed orange bus pass in
order to ride a different bus.
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Bullying
The Sturgeon Bay School
District strives to provide a safe,
secure, and respectful learning
environment for all students in
school buildings, on school
grounds, in school buses, and at
school-sponsored activities.
Bullying has a harmful social,
physical, psychological, and
academic impact on bullies,
victims, and bystanders.
Therefore, bullying behavior is
prohibited at T. J. Walker and
during all activities under school
supervision.
By definition, bullying is
deliberate or intentional
behavior using words or actions
intended to cause fear,
intimidation, or harm. Bullying
behavior can be:
• physical (e.g., assault,
hitting or punching,
kicking, theft, or
threatening behavior)
• verbal (e.g., threatening or
intimidating language,
teasing or name-calling, or
racist remarks)
• indirect (e.g., spreading
cruel rumors, intimidation
through gestures, social
exclusion, or sending
insulting messages or
pictures by mobile phone or
using the Internet).
Any student or other concerned
individual who is either a victim
of the bullying or is aware of the
bullying is encouraged to report
the conduct to the principal or
guidance counselor. Reports of
bullying may be made verbally
or in writing and may be made
confidentially. All such reports,
whether verbal or in writing,
will be taken seriously, and a
clear account of the incident will
be documented. A written record
of the report, including all
pertinent details, will be made
by the recipient of the report
. Bullying (cont.)
There shall be no retaliation
against individuals making such
reports. Individuals engaging in
retaliatory behavior will be
subject to disciplinary action.
The principal and/or school
counselor will address each
reported case of bullying on an
individual basis taking into
account the social and emotional
maturity of the students along
with previous interventions
regarding bullying behavior.
Consequences may occur as
stated in the next section titled
“Discipline.”
Discipline
We have four common sense
expectations for our students:
respect yourself, respect other
students, respect all staff
members, and respect school
property. These serve as our
basic framework for all specific
expectations, rules, and policies
including:
1. all repeated tardiness
2. all verbal, physical, racial,
and sexual harassment directed
toward anyone
3. all dangerous, prohibited,
and illegal items brought to
school
4. all acts of disrespect or
insubordination toward any staff
member
5. all language deemed as
inappropriate
6. all acts of theft,
vandalism, and damage to the
school, its property, or the
property of others
7. all behavior which
disrupts the learning
environment or the emotional or
physical safety of others
8. all loitering in
unsupervised areas
9. all inappropriate gestures
including those which may be
gang related.
These guidelines, considered in
conjunction with the severity of
the infraction and the frequency
in which the student has been
referred to the principal for
misconduct, will determine the
consequence(s):
1. after school or lunch
detention.
2. student and/or
parent/guardian conferences
3. suspension or loss of
participation privileges in school
related activities and/or cocurriculars
4. Saturday detention
5. in school suspension
6. out of school suspension
7. referral to agencies
including law enforcement
8. expulsion
In summary, each student is
expected to abide by all the rules
of the school, to obey the
directions of the staff, to be
courteous and respectful of
everyone, and to observe good
order in all school-sponsored
activities. The School Board
has also adopted a “Classroom
Code of Conduct” along with a
Bullying Policy as per state law.
Board Policies can be found at
our district website.
Co-Curricular Activities
A program of co-curricular activities is available to students throughout the school year in the form of clubs and
sporting programs. All middle school aged students in the Sturgeon Bay School District (including parochial and
home school students) are eligible to participate in the athletic programs offered at T. J. Walker. The following cocurricular activities are available to students:
Football – grades 7, 8
Volleyball – grades 7, 8
Battle of Books – grades 6, 7, 8
Student Council – grades 6, 7, 8
Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball – grades 7, 8
Boys’ and Girls’ Track – grades 6, 7, 8
Destination Imagination – grades 6, 7, 8
Yearbook – grades 6, 7, 8
Wrestling – grades 6, 7, 8
Cross Country - grades 6, 7, 8
Jazz Band – grades 7, 8
Glee Club – grades 6, 7, 8
During the year various activities beyond the normal school day are initiated by student groups, teachers, and
parents. Such activities must: be in accordance with School Board Policy, be approved by the principal, have an
advisor, have an approved means to be funded, and be properly chaperoned. In the past these groups have included:
Soccer, Chess Club, Dance Team, and Cheerleading.
The main goal of middle school athletics is the development of ideals, standards, character, learning one's strengths
and weaknesses, sportsmanship, skill-development, enjoyment for the particular activity and the group involved, and
understanding various types of people by working and playing together. The emphasis is not to be placed on
winning. Each individual is expected to play a significant amount of time during each contest. Equal time is not
guaranteed, as several variables factor into the decision. Cutting students from a sport is not allowed. On the next
page are important policies and procedures regarding co-curricular activities.
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Co-Curricular Code: Students are governed by a co-curricular code approved by the Board of Education
- “Any student whose habits, and/or conduct, namely the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, drugs,
profanity, acts of immorality, or other unacceptable conduct in or out of school may make him/her
ineligible to represent the ideals, principles, and standards of the school. He/she shall be suspended from
any practice and/or competition by the principal. The period of suspension shall be determined by the
principal in accordance with school board policy.
A signed co-curricular code must be on file in the school office prior to any involvement (practices and
competitions) in the co-curricular program.
Academic Eligibility: T. J. Walker students must be passing all their classes in order to participate in
practice or contests. Utilizing our electronic grading system, weekly lists will be generated of students who
are ineligible for these activities due to failing grades. Once a student regains his/her passing status, s/he
will be allowed to participate. Students who have a failing grade on the quarter report card will be
ineligible to participate in practice or contests for two calendar weeks after the grades are posted.
User Fees: The Board of Education has approved charging user fees for all participants in athletics. Each
athlete will be required to pay the fee before participating. Parents who qualify for free and reduced lunch
may request to waive the participation fee by completing an Athletic Participation Fee Waiver Form.
Sportsmanship: Athletics and other competitions provide an excellent avenue for developing a student’s
character in the area of sportsmanship, leadership, commitment, and working with others. Parents are
asked to support their child’s development in these areas by encouraging participation in co-curriculars and
by attending their child’s contests. While attending events parents need to assist our school’s efforts to
build character in our students by modeling appropriate sportsmanship. We ask that parents and students
remain positive by shouting encouraging words rather than words that put-down players, coaches, or
officials.
Athletic Insurance: All students who participate in athletics must have some kind of insurance. All
participants will be required to file a proof of insurance form signed by their parent. Coaches of all sports
will not allow any student to participate in any practice or competition until this has been done.
Physical Examinations: All boys and girls participating in any organized athletic programs must have a
physical examination by a licensed physician on file in the school office prior to any involvement (practice
of competition) in the activity. Physical examinations are required every other year. Alternate year parent
permission cards are required for years between physical examinations. Cards for physical examinations
and alternate year permission are available from the activity advisor, coach, or athletic director.
Transportation To/From Events: When attending a school-sponsored function (i.e. sporting event, soloensemble, band festival, etc.) as part of a team or a group, in most instances students will be transported in
district owned/approved vehicles to events unless the coach makes arrangements for parents to transport
their student. Parents attending the event may sign-out their child to ride home with them. Arrangements to
have their child ride home with another responsible adult must be done prior to the event in writing and
have the principal’s approval.
Cooperation With Churches: The Board of Education recognizes the church as an important partner with
the school in the overall development of our youth. Every effort shall be made to schedule school activities
so they will interfere as little as possible with scheduled church events. As a general rule, Wednesday
evenings and Sundays will remain, as much as possible, devoid of school activities; therefore, all practices
will end by 5 PM on Wednesdays with none on Sunday.
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